Announces Endorsements of 2026 D.C. Bar Candidates

(Washington, DC – Updated May 12, 2026) – The Hispanic Bar Association of DC (HBA-DC) announces endorsements for the following 2026 candidates for leadership positions with the District of Columbia Bar. “HBA-DC was impressed by the qualifications of all the endorsed candidates. Their demonstrated leadership experience as well as a commitment to diversity and public service in our community was why we ultimately decided to extend our endorsements” stated HBA-DC President Victoria Hamscho. “HBA-DC is confident that if these endorsed candidates are elected, they will serve the D.C. Bar well.”

ABA HOUSE OF DELEGATES:
Laura Possessky
Joseph Saka

BOARD OF GOVERNORS:
John Hopkins-Gillispie
Hilary Gerzhoy
James Bubar

For more information, DC Bar members can click here: www.dcbar.org/elections.

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About the HBA-DC

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, voluntary legal association representing the interests of Hispanic attorneys, judges, law professors, law students, and legal professionals within the greater Washington, DC area.   Its mission is promoting the professional development of Hispanic lawyers and law students; promoting equal justice and opportunities for all Hispanics; and promoting the appointment of Hispanics to leadership positions in Federal, state, and local governments, in the judiciary, and in other leadership positions.   For more information visit www.hbadc.org.

Joins as Amici Curiae in Support of the American Bar Association

(Washington, DC – Updated October 6, 2025) – On Thursday October 2, 2025, the Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia (HBA-DC) and HBA-DC President, Daniel Trujillo Esmeral, in his individual capacity as President of HBA-DC, joined eighty-three current and former leaders of bar associations in the District of Columbia, including former presidents and members of the Board of Governors of the District of Columbia Bar and six voluntary bar associations, filed an amicus brief in support of the American Bar Association (ABA), which is challenging what it calls “the Trump administration’s ongoing unlawful policy of intimidation against lawyers and law firms.”

The HBA-DC’s interest in this litigation stems from its dedication to the principles of promoting equal justice and opportunity; educating the community about relevant legal issues; and promoting the professional development of lawyers and law students, including those of Hispanic heritage.

President Trujillo Esmeral stated, “The President’s actions and threats continue to radiate throughout the legal community and are having real and unwarranted effects not only on the availability of legal services, especially pro bono services as this concept is generally understood, but on the lawyers or firms who are threatened with financial penalties for making an independent professional judgment.”

From the brief:

The President's conduct being challenged in this litigation involves not merely a small number of attacks on lawyers or law firms but a systematic and systemic assault on the vital underpinnings of the American legal process itself. In addition to the Plaintiff American Bar Association, leaders of the bar elsewhere, including dozens of state and local bar associations, have condemned these attacks on the Rule of Law. This conduct is patently unlawful and has had direct and immediate consequences to the ability of lawyers and law firms to discharge their ethical responsibilities to provide pro bono service to assist the legal profession in fulfilling its duty to make legal counsel available.

The brief in its entirety can be read here.

Joins as Amici Curiae in Support of Susman Godfrey Litigation

(Washington, DC – Updated April 28, 2025) – On Friday April 25, 2025, the Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia (HBA-DC) and HBA-DC President, Daniel Trujillo Esmeral, in his individual capacity as President of HBA-DC, joined a swath of Voluntary Bar Associations and current and former Bar Leaders as Amici Curiae in support of Susman Godfrey’s litigation in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia.

The HBA-DC’s interest in this litigation stems from its dedication to the principles of promoting equal justice and opportunity; educating the community about relevant legal issues; and promoting the professional development of lawyers and law students, including those of Hispanic heritage.

From the brief:

The President’s action being challenged in this litigation is not merely an attack on a single law firm (or small handful of major firms) but an assault on the vital underpinnings of the American legal process itself. Leaders of the bar elsewhere, such as the American Bar Association and dozens of state and local bar associations, have condemned these attacks on the Rule of Law.

This assault is of special concern, though, to the vitality of the Rule of Law in the seat of government, where we and others have served as elected leaders of the bar.

It would be hard to imagine any action that poses a graver danger to the Rule of Law than allowing a President to blackball a law firm and its clients, summarily, by preventing the firm from representing the interests of clients before government agencies and by imposing draconian sanctions on clients who exercise their right to choose their own trusted counsel in challenging government actions or in pursuing their interests in dealing with government agencies.

The brief in its entirety can be read here.

Announces Endorsements of 2025 D.C. Bar Candidates

(Washington, DC – Updated April 20, 2025) – The Hispanic Bar Association of DC (HBA-DC) announces endorsements for the following 2025 candidates for leadership positions with the District of Columbia Bar. “HBA-DC was impressed by the qualifications of all the endorsed candidates. Their demonstrated leadership experience as well as a commitment to diversity and public service in our community was why we ultimately decided to extend our endorsements” stated HBA-DC President Daniel Trujillo Esmeral. “HBA-DC is confident that if these endorsed candidates are elected, they will serve the D.C. Bar well.”

For more information, DC Bar members can click here: www.dcbar.org/elections.

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About the HBA-DC

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, voluntary legal association representing the interests of Hispanic attorneys, judges, law professors, law students, and legal professionals within the greater Washington, DC area.   Its mission is promoting the professional development of Hispanic lawyers and law students; promoting equal justice and opportunities for all Hispanics; and promoting the appointment of Hispanics to leadership positions in Federal, state, and local governments, in the judiciary, and in other leadership positions.   For more information visit www.hbadc.org.

Mourns the Passing

of the

Hon. Ricardo M. Urbina, U.S. District Court Judge (Ret.)

(Washington, DC – June 21, 2024) – It is with profound sadness that HBA-DC announces the passing of the Hon. Ricardo M. Urbina, U.S. District Court Judge (Ret.), principled jurist, trailblazer, beloved and dedicated mentor and friend.

Judge Urbina, who was of Honduran and Puerto Rican descent, was the first Latino to be appointed to the local and the federal bench in the District of Columbia. President Ronald Reagan nominated him for the District of Columbia Superior Court in 1981. President Bill Clinton nominated him to the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia in 1994. He assumed senior status in 2011 and retired in 2012.

Judge Urbina earned his bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University and his juris doctor from the Georgetown University Law Center. He began his legal career as a public defender with the Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia and later went into private practice in Washington, D.C. He was also on the faculty of Howard University Law School prior to his appointment to the bench.

In 2001, HBA-DC proudly established the Hon. Ricardo M. Urbina Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognizes a member of the District of Columbia legal profession with 20+ years of service and outstanding contributions to the Hispanic community in the areas of equality, fairness, and social justice. Through this award, presented during our annual Equal Justice Awards reception, we honor Judge Urbina’s legacy, numerous contributions to the legal profession and his indelible impact on our organization.

In 2011, HBA-DC celebrated Judge Urbina's distinguished 30 years on the bench with a reception attended by judges, attorneys and his former law clerks, who recalled not only his keen understanding of the law but also his generosity, humanity, and sense of justice. HBA-DC presented Judge Urbina with an autographed seal from the organization and a framed photo of the view of Pennsylvania Avenue from his chambers. The occasion also marked the formal convocation of the HBA-DC Judicial Council, which provides a forum for consideration of matters of importance to Hispanic members of the Judiciary.

“Judge Urbina was a jurist of impeccable credentials, who worked tirelessly to ensure equal justice for those in our society most in need, including the Latino community. His legacy will continue to inspire us to be better lawyers and better members of our community,” said HBA-DC President Paulina Vera. “Judge Urbina was a role model, mentor, colleague, and friend to HBA-DC. As the first Latino jurist in the District of Columbia, he inspired us to pursue the highest levels of our profession and made the path to the judiciary a reality for many of us. While we are deeply saddened by his passing, today, we honor him with our resolve to follow in his footsteps,” said the Hon. Kenia Seoane López, Associate Judge of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia and a past president of HBA-DC.

The passing of Judge Urbina is a painful loss to our community, and we will deeply miss him. HBA-DC extends our deepest condolences to Judge Urbina’s family, friends and all whose lives he touched.

(Washington, DC – May 16, 2024) - As the D.C. Council considers and finalizes the FY 2025 Budget in the coming weeks, the Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia (“HBA-DC”) reiterates that the funding of the Access to Justice Initiative is paramount to protect against the devastating impact on the most vulnerable residents in the District. While there was some progress in pushing back on the Mayor's initial 67% proposed cut to the funding, HBA-DC urges the Council to restore funding to $31.668m–the same level as FY 2024. Not only would the proposed budget include cuts of funding to legal services that directly serve the community, but it would also have a detrimental impact on Spanish-speaking attorneys. 

One of the lesser-known aspects of the Access to Justice Initiative is the Loan Repayment Assistance Program ("LRAP") where legal services attorneys can obtain loan repayment assistance in exchange for a full-time employment at a qualifying legal services provider. Many Spanish-speaking attorneys depend on this assistance to afford working at a nonprofit in lieu of more lucrative legal positions. Among these qualifying employers are the CAIR Coalition, CARECEN, Ayuda, and dozens more that provide direct legal services to Spanish-speaking residents in the District. Funding the Initiative in its entirety will continue to protect access to legal assistance and address the needs of Spanish-speaking clients.

Announces Endorsements of 2024 D.C. Bar Candidates

(Washington, DC – Updated May 8, 2024) – The Hispanic Bar Association of DC (HBA-DC) announces endorsements for the following 2024 candidates for leadership positions with the District of Columbia Bar. “HBA-DC was impressed by the qualifications of all the endorsed candidates. Their demonstrated leadership experience as well as a commitment to diversity and public service in our community was why we ultimately decided to extend our endorsements” stated HBA-DC President Paulina Vera. “HBA-DC is confident that if these endorsed candidates are elected, they will serve the D.C. Bar well.”

For more information, DC Bar members can click here: www.dcbar.org/elections.

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About the HBA-DC

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, voluntary legal association representing the interests of Hispanic attorneys, judges, law professors, law students, and legal professionals within the greater Washington, DC area.   Its mission is promoting the professional development of Hispanic lawyers and law students; promoting equal justice and opportunities for all Hispanics; and promoting the appointment of Hispanics to leadership positions in Federal, state, and local governments, in the judiciary, and in other leadership positions.   For more information visit www.hbadc.org.

(Washington, DC – April 23, 2024) – The Hispanic Bar Association of DC warmly congratulates Carmen G. Iguina González on her  nomination  by President Biden to serve on the District of Columbia Court of Appeals. Ms. Iguina González's distinguished career, marked by her relentless commitment to civil rights and her profound understanding of the law, makes her an exemplary choice for this prestigious position.

As a former Senior Staff Attorney at the ACLU Immigrants’ Rights Project and a counsel at Kaplan Hecker & Fink LLP, Ms. Iguina González has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to justice and the protection of human rights. Her tenure as Director of the Howard University School of Law Civil Rights Clinic is a testament to her commitment to nurturing the next generation of legal minds, dedicated to the principles of equality and justice.

Moreover, Ms. Iguina González's experience clerking for Justice Sonia Sotomayor on the U.S. Supreme Court underscores her legal acumen and her profound respect for the Constitution. Her educational background, with a J.D., magna cum laude, from New York University School of Law, and her undergraduate degree, magna cum laude, from Harvard University, further reflect her rigorous academic preparation and her readiness for this role.

The Hispanic Bar Association of DC also recognizes President Biden’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the diversity of the judiciary, which reaffirms the strength found in a judiciary that mirrors the rich diversity of our nation.

We are confident that Ms. Iguina González will serve with distinction and uphold the highest standards of justice and integrity. We look forward to her contributions to the D.C. Court of Appeals and to the broader legal community.  HBA-DC gave Ms. Iguina its highest endorsement for this position following a written questionnaire, interview, and board vote. HBA-DC urges the Senate to act quickly on her nomination.

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About the HBA-DC

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, voluntary legal association representing the interests of Hispanic attorneys, judges, law professors, law students, and legal professionals within the greater Washington, DC area.   Its mission is promoting the professional development of Hispanic lawyers and law students; promoting equal justice and opportunities for all Hispanics; and promoting the appointment of Hispanics to leadership positions in Federal, state, and local governments, in the judiciary, and in other leadership positions.   For more information visit www.hbadc.org.

(Washington, DC – April 9, 2024) – On March 26th, the Francis Scott Key bridge collapsed after being struck by a cargo ship in Baltimore. Those who are still missing are now sadly presumed to be deceased. In light of this tragedy in Baltimore, the Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia (HBA-DC) extends its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those affected. We stand in solidarity with the Hispanic community during this difficult time.

To support the families impacted, we encourage contributions to the fund established by the Baltimore Civic Fund, which aims to provide immediate and direct assistance. “With nearly one in four construction workers in the U.S. being Latino, we at HBA-DC want to stress the importance of safe working conditions and appropriate oversight of those conditions,” said HBA-DC President Paulina Vera. Together, let us offer our support and thoughts to those who are grieving and those who have lost their lives on the bridge. 

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About the HBA-DC

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, voluntary legal association representing the interests of Hispanic attorneys, judges, law professors, law students, and legal professionals within the greater Washington, DC area.   Its mission is promoting the professional development of Hispanic lawyers and law students; promoting equal justice and opportunities for all Hispanics; and promoting the appointment of Hispanics to leadership positions in Federal, state, and local governments, in the judiciary, and in other leadership positions.   For more information visit www.hbadc.org.

The program will take place from May 28, 2024 to August 2, 2024.

To apply please submit the following:
(1) Application form, (2) cover letter, (3) resume, (4) transcript, (5) writing sample, and (6) list of two references.
The application form is available here: https://www.hbadc.org/page/judicialcouncil
Submit your application materials as a single PDF file to: judicialcouncilinternships@hbadc.org.
Application DEADLINE: February 23, 2024

All bidding will be conducted virtually and you can view the auction items here: https://hbadcfoundation.betterworld.org/auctions/hba-dc-foundation-equal-justice.

We have hand-picked exciting auction items and creative experiences from our favorite artists and businesses — including tickets to local performances, art pieces from nationally recognized artists, photography sessions, and wines sourced from Latinx-owned family wineries, to name a few.

The proceeds of the Silent Auction will allow the HBA-DC foundation to: (1) fund summer fellowships for Latino law students working with public interest legal organizations serving the Latino community in the DMV; (2) fund fellowships for graduating law students to support bar preparation expenses; and (3) host PASOS, the annual graduation ceremony for all graduating Latino law students in the DC-area.

The Foundation has kicked off the 2023 HBA-DC Scholarship program and is accepting applications until 11:59 p.m. on Friday, October 6, 2023. For additional information about the scholarship, including instructions on how to apply and eligibility, please review the 2023 Scholarship Application, which may be downloaded from the Foundation home page at www.hbadc.org/page/foundation.

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia

Expresses Profound Disappointment in Supreme Court's Decisions

(Washington, DC – July 14, 2023) – The Hispanic Bar Association of DC (“HBA-DC”) strongly condemns the recent Supreme Court rulings that have significant implications for higher education and the pursuit of justice in the United States.

The first ruling declared the Biden Administration's student loan forgiveness plan illegal, raising concerns about addressing the burden of student debt. This decision has far-reaching consequences for students, particularly Hispanic lawyers who often carry heavy debt due to structural inequalities. The Hispanic Bar Association of DC acknowledges the urgent need to rectify the systemic disparities that hinder the professional and personal advancement of Hispanic lawyers.

Furthermore, we express deep concern regarding the Supreme Court ruling in Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. Harvard, which deemed race-conscious admissions programs unconstitutional. This decision has far-reaching implications for higher education institutions across the United States. It also contradicts International Human Rights standards, such as the ones advanced by the UN Committee on Eliminating Racial Discrimination.

Leaders of esteemed private and public institutions have already expressed concerns about a potentially significant decline in Black and Hispanic student representation, should they be compelled to consider grades and test scores for admissions decisions exclusively. The Washington Post has reported that in states with current affirmative action bans, already underrepresented racial groups, including Black and Hispanic students, have even lower representation in selective public higher education institutions than in states without such prohibitions.

The HBA-DC is deeply disappointed in these rulings and remains concerned about their detrimental impact on Black and Hispanic students and their long-term socioeconomic prospects. These decisions will undermine advancements that have moved the needle in rectifying the effects of legal segregation and will hinder the ability of educational institutions to create diverse educational spaces and opportunities for all races.

“The Supreme Court's decision overlooks the longstanding disparities in educational opportunities for students of color, perpetuates a system that historically fails to address inequities, and risks facilitating the creation of a new system of discrimination,” said Paulina Vera, HBA-DC President Elect. “This decision is disappointing for all of the work done until now to create diverse and inclusive learning environments in colleges and universities.”

The Hispanic Bar Association of DC calls upon lawmakers, educators, and advocates to recognize the value of diversity in higher education and to explore alternative pathways that promote equal access to quality education for all students, including underrepresented minorities. We will continue to advocate for policies that advance equity and inclusion in college admissions to ensure a fair and just society.

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About the HBA-DC

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, voluntary legal association representing the interests of Hispanic attorneys, judges, law professors, law students, and legal professionals within the greater Washington, DC area.   Its mission is promoting the professional development of Hispanic lawyers and law students; promoting equal justice and opportunities for all Hispanics; and promoting the appointment of Hispanics to leadership positions in Federal, state, and local governments, in the judiciary, and in other leadership positions.   For more information visit www.hbadc.org.

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia

Announces Endorsements of 2023 D.C. Bar Candidates

(Washington, DC – May 19, 2023) – The Hispanic Bar Association of DC (HBA-DC) announces endorsements for the following 2023 candidates for leadership positions with the District of Columbia Bar. “Not only have the following candidates for DC Bar positions demonstrated the requisite leadership experience and a commitment to serving the legal profession, but their long-standing commitment to diversity, inclusiveness, and public service in our community makes them ideal candidates,” stated HBA-DC President Shirley Diaz. “We are confident that each of the endorsed candidates, if elected, will serve the DC Bar well.”

PRESIDENT-ELECT:
Shaun Snyder

MEMBER AT-LARGE:
Hardeep Grover

To vote, DC Bar members can click here: www.dcbar.org/elections.

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About the HBA-DC

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, voluntary legal association representing the interests of Hispanic attorneys, judges, law professors, law students, and legal professionals within the greater Washington, DC area.   Its mission is promoting the professional development of Hispanic lawyers and law students; promoting equal justice and opportunities for all Hispanics; and promoting the appointment of Hispanics to leadership positions in Federal, state, and local governments, in the judiciary, and in other leadership positions.   For more information visit www.hbadc.org.

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia

Statement Regarding the U.S. Senate's Confirmation of Bradley N. Garcia
to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit

(Washington, DC – May 16, 2023) – The Senate's decision to confirm Mr. Garcia to this esteemed position is a cause for celebration. On behalf of HBA-DC, we extend our wholehearted applause for this significant milestone.

At HBA-DC, our mission is to promote the appointment of Hispanics to leadership positions in Federal, state, and local governments, the judiciary, and various other leadership roles. With the confirmation of Mr. Garcia, this mission is upheld, further strengthening our commitment to inclusivity and diversity within the judicial system.

The significance of Mr. Garcia's confirmation extends beyond our organization. A fully functioning judicial system that reflects the diversity of our communities is essential for ensuring justice and equal representation for all citizens, particularly those from communities of color. Sadly, these communities often face systemic barriers that limit their access to justice. By confirming Mr. Garcia, we take a vital step towards addressing these disparities and ensuring that the Hispanic community is well-represented within the judicial system.

We commend the U.S. Senate for recognizing the importance of diversity and inclusion in the judiciary and for selecting Mr. Garcia for this esteemed position. We believe that his expertise, dedication, and commitment to justice will have a profound impact on the decisions made by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit.

As we celebrate this milestone, we also acknowledge that there is still much work to be done in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within our legal institutions. HBA-DC remains steadfast in our commitment to advancing opportunities for Hispanics in the legal profession and advocating for equal access to justice. We will continue to champion the appointment of highly qualified individuals who reflect the rich diversity of our society.

Once again, we extend our congratulations to Judge Bradley N. Garcia on his confirmation. We look forward to witnessing the positive impact he will make on the District of Columbia Circuit Bench and the Hispanic community at large.

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About the HBA-DC

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, voluntary legal association representing the interests of Hispanic attorneys, judges, law professors, law students, and legal professionals within the greater Washington, DC area.   Its mission is promoting the professional development of Hispanic lawyers and law students; promoting equal justice and opportunities for all Hispanics; and promoting the appointment of Hispanics to leadership positions in Federal, state, and local governments, in the judiciary, and in other leadership positions.   For more information visit www.hbadc.org.

Visit the HBA-DC team page here to donate! Last year HBA-DC came in second place among legal associations. Help us compete for first place and meet our goal of $1,000 this year! You can also volunteer in person at the food bank on the following dates:

• May 10th, 8:30-11:30AM (in the garden)
• May 15th, 5:30-8PM (warehouse)
• May 18th, 1-4PM (warehouse)
• May 20th, 1-4PM (this is a Saturday and families are welcome)
• May 23rd, 9AM-noon (warehouse)

Please email Mikael Rojas (rojasm07@gmail.com) and Megan Curran (mcurran@capitalareafoodbank.org) if you would like to volunteer or have any questions about the campaign.

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia

Joins District Voluntary Bar Association Call For Consistent Funding for Civil Legal Services

(Washington, DC – April 19, 2023) – The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia (“HBA-DC”) signed on to the Washington Council of Lawyers’ Voluntary Bar Leaders Letter regarding the DC Access to Justice Initiative. The letter addresses the proposed budget cuts to the DC Council budget for the Access to Justice Initiative in the FY24 budget proposal. These budget cuts will result in a 60% reduction in funding for the Initiative, from $31.689 million in FY23 to $13.018 million in FY24, which could have catastrophic consequences for thousands of District residents who rely on the program for legal help. The DC Access to Justice project provides crucial support for low or moderate-income residents, particularly minorities, to access the civil justice system, which aligns with HBA-DC’s mission to promote equal justice and opportunity for all Hispanics. Furthermore, the project does important work related to eviction and housing issues, which disproportionately affect minority residents, including Hispanics, in the DMV area. The letter emphasizes the importance of the Access to Justice Initiative and highlights how the funding helps to train new lawyers and grow pro bono partnerships. You can read the letter here.

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About the HBA-DC

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, voluntary legal association representing the interests of Hispanic attorneys, judges, law professors, law students, and legal professionals within the greater Washington, DC area.   Its mission is promoting the professional development of Hispanic lawyers and law students; promoting equal justice and opportunities for all Hispanics; and promoting the appointment of Hispanics to leadership positions in Federal, state, and local governments, in the judiciary, and in other leadership positions.   For more information visit www.hbadc.org.

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia

Celebrates Black History Month

Dear HBA-DC Members,

I wanted to take a moment to celebrate Black History Month and specifically the contributions of Afro-Latinos to the legal profession.

Black History Month is an opportunity to recognize and honor the achievements and contributions of Black Americans, including Afro-Latinos, to the history of our nation and the world. The legal profession is no exception, and Afro-Latinos have played an integral role in shaping our justice system and advancing the cause of equality and justice for all.

From trailblazing lawyers and judges to community advocates and civil rights leaders, Afro-Latinos have made a lasting impact on the legal profession and our society as a whole. Their tireless efforts to overcome discrimination and fight for justice have inspired countless others and paved the way for future generations to pursue their dreams and make their own mark on the world.

As we celebrate Black History Month, I encourage all of us to take a moment to reflect on the contributions of Afro-Latinos to our country and the legal profession and to recommit ourselves to the ongoing work of creating a more just and equal society for all.

Let's celebrate and honor the achievements of Afro-Latinos during this special month and work together to continue their legacy throughout the year.

All the best,

Shirley
President, HBA-DC
president@hbadc.org

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About the HBA-DC

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, voluntary legal association representing the interests of Hispanic attorneys, judges, law professors, law students, and legal professionals within the greater Washington, DC area.   Its mission is promoting the professional development of Hispanic lawyers and law students; promoting equal justice and opportunities for all Hispanics; and promoting the appointment of Hispanics to leadership positions in Federal, state, and local governments, in the judiciary, and in other leadership positions.   For more information visit www.hbadc.org.

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia

Commemorates Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

(Washington, DC – January 16, 2023) – The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia (HBA-DC) commemorates Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his legacy of fighting for civil rights, equality, and justice. "As President of the Hispanic Bar Association of DC, I would like to take a moment to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his tireless efforts towards racial equality and justice for all," said HBA-DC President Shirley Díaz. "Today, let us remember his message of unity and strive to continue his work in creating a more just and equitable society for all." HBA-DC honors Dr. King today and stands committed to combating any kind of discrimination or oppression whether by race, ethnicity, age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or disability.

* * *

About the HBA-DC

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, voluntary legal association representing the interests of Hispanic attorneys, judges, law professors, law students, and legal professionals within the greater Washington, DC area.   Its mission is promoting the professional development of Hispanic lawyers and law students; promoting equal justice and opportunities for all Hispanics; and promoting the appointment of Hispanics to leadership positions in Federal, state, and local governments, in the judiciary, and in other leadership positions.   For more information visit www.hbadc.org.

• President:  Shirley Díaz
• President-Elect:  Paulina Vera
• Vice President for External Affairs:  Nelly J. Montenegro
• Vice President for Internal Affairs:  Mikael Rojas
• Vice President for Membership:  Daniel Trujillo Esmeral
• Treasurer:  Paulette Rodríguez López
• Secretary:  Victoria P. Hernandez
• Immediate Past President:  Maritza Pérez Medina
• At-Large Board Member:  Jorge M. Castillo
• At-Large Board Member:  Aura Guerrero
• At-Large Board Member:  Ana Jara
• At-Large Board Member:  Paula Lequerica-Sternberg
• At-Large Board Member:  Bobby Ochoa
• At-Large Board Member:  Versely Rosales-Hart
• At-Large Board Member:  Raquel Martinez Sloan

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About the HBA-DC

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, voluntary legal association representing the interests of Hispanic attorneys, judges, law professors, law students, and legal professionals within the greater Washington, DC area.   Its mission is promoting the professional development of Hispanic lawyers and law students; promoting equal justice and opportunities for all Hispanics; and promoting the appointment of Hispanics to leadership positions in Federal, state, and local governments, in the judiciary, and in other leadership positions.   For more information visit www.hbadc.org.

1. President-Elect;
2. Vice President for External Affairs;
3. Vice President for Internal Affairs;
4. Vice President for Membership;
5. Secretary;
6. Treasurer; and
7. At Large Board Member (7 positions).

The Elections Committee is accepting nominations and candidate statements to be published to the membership. The deadline for submission of nominations and candidate statements is Tuesday, December 13, 2022, at 11:59 pm EST. Nominations and candidate statements must be sent via email to elections@hbadc.org. Only attorney members in good standing may be candidates for office. If your HBA-DC membership has expired, log into your profile here and follow the profile prompts in the center of the screen to renew your membership. To become a new member, please click here. For more information about the Elections, please click here.

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia Issues Statement

Condemning Former LA City Councilmember President Nury Martinez and Demands the Resignation of Councilmembers Gil Cedillo and Kevin de León

(Washington, DC – October 26, 2022) – The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia (“HBA-DC”) joins the Mexican American Bar Association of Los Angeles County’s statement released on October 11, 2022 condemning former LA City Councilmember President Nury Martinez and demands the resignation of Councilmembers Gil Cedillo and Kevin de León.

On October 9, 2022, several Los Angeles City Council members, Nury Martinez, Gil Cedillo and Kevin de León, were caught on an anonymously leaked audio recording engaging in anti-Black and anti-Indigenous dialogue during a redistricting meeting in 2021 with former LA County Federation of Labor President Ron Herrera. Since the leaked audio recording was made public, Nury Martinez, who made the most inflammatory comments, and Ron Herrera have resigned from their respective positions. We demand the resignation of Council members Gil Cedillo and Kevin de León who allowed this rhetoric to take place. We stand in solidarity with Black and Indigenous communities and we denounce racism and racial injustices.

Racism is deeply entrenched in this nation’s history and unacceptably persists today. It is paramount to combat racism across all communities, including within our own Hispanic and Latino communities. We cannot stand by as lawmakers and so-called leaders in our community make racist remarks particularly when they have the ability to pass laws that can hurt marginalized people and communities. As an organization consisting of attorneys and law students who believe in promoting equal justice under the law, it is our duty to address these injustices and resist remaining silent and inactive when we witness them. We hope others will join our call to action. To that end, HBA-DC’s Black Lives Matter Taskforce works to address racism like this and we hope our communities will consider HBA-DC and its Taskforce as a resource moving forward.

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About the HBA-DC

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, voluntary legal association representing the interests of Hispanic attorneys, judges, law professors, law students, and legal professionals within the greater Washington, DC area.   Its mission is promoting the professional development of Hispanic lawyers and law students; promoting equal justice and opportunities for all Hispanics; and promoting the appointment of Hispanics to leadership positions in Federal, state, and local governments, in the judiciary, and in other leadership positions.   For more information visit www.hbadc.org.

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia

Celebrates Juneteenth

(Washington, DC – June 20, 2022) – Today the Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia (HBA-DC) celebrates Juneteenth. This holiday is both a celebration of freedom and a moment to reflect on the horrendous injustice of U.S. slavery. Today, as Americans commemorate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in Galveston 157 years ago, we urge our members to use their legal education to advocate for justice and help build a more equitable country.

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About the HBA-DC

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, voluntary legal association representing the interests of Hispanic attorneys, judges, law professors, law students, and legal professionals within the greater Washington, DC area.  Its mission is promoting the professional development of Hispanic lawyers and law students; promoting equal justice and opportunities for all Hispanics; and promoting the appointment of Hispanics to leadership positions in Federal, state, and local governments, in the judiciary, and in other leadership positions.  For more information visit www.hbadc.org.

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia

Observes Memorial Day

(Washington, DC – May 30, 2022) – The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia (HBA-DC), along with the rest of the country, observes Memorial Day and pays tribute to the brave men and women who died while serving this country in the military.

“Today we are proud to honor those, including many HBA-DC members and their families, who served in the military and made the ultimate sacrifice.” stated HBA-DC President Maritza Pérez.

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About the HBA-DC

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, voluntary legal association representing the interests of Hispanic attorneys, judges, law professors, law students, and legal professionals within the greater Washington, DC area.    Its mission is promoting the professional development of Hispanic lawyers and law students; promoting equal justice and opportunities for all Hispanics; and promoting the appointment of Hispanics to leadership positions in Federal, state, and local governments, in the judiciary, and in other leadership positions.    For more information visit www.hbadc.org.

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia

Announces Endorsements of 2022 D.C. Bar Candidates

(Washington, DC – May 4, 2022) – The Hispanic Bar Association of DC (HBA-DC) announces endorsements for the following 2022 candidates for leadership positions with the District of Columbia Bar. “We reviewed a competitive slate of candidates this year, but the individuals we selected for DC Bar positions have demonstrated leadership experience as well as a commitment to diversity, inclusiveness, and public service in our community,” stated HBA-DC President Maritza Pérez. “We believe these candidates will be great assets to the DC Bar.”

PRESIDENT-ELECT:
Charles Lowery

TREASURER:
Shaun Snyder

Board of Governors:
Karen A. Newton Cole
Steven Miller

ABA DELEGATES:
Alejandro Guadarrama
Lorelie Masters
Laura Possessky

To vote, DC Bar members can click here.

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About the HBA-DC

The Hispanic Bar Association of the District of Columbia is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, voluntary legal association representing the interests of Hispanic attorneys, judges, law professors, law students, and legal professionals within the greater Washington, DC area.   Its mission is promoting the professional development of Hispanic lawyers and law students; promoting equal justice and opportunities for all Hispanics; and promoting the appointment of Hispanics to leadership positions in Federal, state, and local governments, in the judiciary, and in other leadership positions.   For more information visit www.hbadc.org.